A tragic incident unfolded on Monday when a two-year-old boy lost his life due to a gunshot wound to the head. The incident led to the arrest of two individuals, as reported by the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. The young victim, identified as Zane Sebastian Burgess, was rushed to Prisma Health Hillcrest Hospital by his family members. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, the child succumbed to his injuries at 7:51 p.m., according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office.
The unfortunate series of events that led to the toddler’s death began at his home on Lebon Place in Simpsonville. Following an investigation into the incident, deputies from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the residence. The child’s mother, 32-year-old Deylakotia Simon Burgess, and her step-father, 50-year-old Willie Tyron Burgess Jr., were subsequently taken into custody.
The charges against the two adults stem from allegations of unlawfully putting a child at risk. Law enforcement authorities suspect that the child was able to access a firearm within the home, leading to what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigation reports reveal that a handgun was left in a location within the home that was easily accessible to the child. It is believed that the child accidentally discharged the weapon, resulting in his tragic death.
Following the arrests, a hearing was held for the two accused individuals at the Greenville County Magistrate’s Office. Both Willie Burgess and Deylakotia Burgess were granted bonds of $10,000 each.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of secure firearm storage, especially in homes with children. It highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and education about gun safety to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.